H.B. 2133 Summary

• Increases the minimum age to purchase tobacco products and electronic smoking devices from 18 to 21 years of age, effective July 1, 2018.

• Creates a transitional period from July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2018 prohibiting sales to persons born after June 30, 1997.

• Provides an exception for individuals who were 18 years of age or older on or before June 30, 2015, allowing them to continue purchasing tobacco products.

• Increases penalties for sellers: $500 for first violation, $500-$2,000 for subsequent violations; penalties for minors remain $10 for first offense and $50 or 48-72 hours community service for subsequent offenses.

• Requires updated signage at points of sale and vending machines notifying customers of the age restriction in letters at least one-half inch high.